1. Introduction: The “Live-Work-Play” Evolution

In the sprawling urban landscape of Greater Cairo, real estate developments often force buyers to choose between the tranquility of the suburbs and the vibrancy of the city center. District 5 New Cairo eliminates this compromise. Developed by Marakez—the visionaries behind the iconic Mall of Arabia—this project is not merely a residential compound; it is a meticulously master-planned district designed to bridge the gap between New Cairo’s energy and Maadi’s accessibility.

District 5 represents a paradigm shift in Egyptian real estate. By combining a world-class business park (Mindhaus), a lifestyle retail center, and a low-density residential enclave, Marakez has created a self-sufficient destination. For the international investor or the expatriate family, District 5 offers a strategic foothold in a location that serves as the nexus of Cairo’s eastern expansion, promising both a high quality of life and robust asset appreciation.

2. Project Highlights: Key Investment Facts

• Developer: Marakez (A subsidiary of the Saudi Fawaz Al Hokair Group).
• Location: New Katameya (Directly on the Cairo-Sokhna Highway).
• Total Land Area: 268 Acres.
• Greenery Ratio: Over 82.4% dedicated to open spaces, trails, and lagoons.
• Residential Zones: Plateau, NHN (North Neighborhood), and Villa Zones.
• Commercial Zone: Mindhaus (Business Park) & District 5 Lifestyle Mall.
• Unit Types: Apartments, Duplexes, Townhouses, Twin Houses, Administrative Offices, Entire Commercial Buildings.
• Starting Price: Residential units starting from approx. 12,000,000 EGP.
• Payment Plan: Diverse options ranging from 10% Down Payment up to 7 Years.
• Delivery Status: Some phases delivered; others scheduled for 2025 and beyond.

3. Location & Accessibility: The Strategic Nexus

The genius of District 5 lies in its location. While marketed under the New Cairo umbrella, it sits in New Katameya, a strategic node that acts as a bridge connecting the “Old Capital” (Maadi, Heliopolis) with the “New Expansion” (New Cairo, Administrative Capital). This positioning solves the chronic traffic issues often associated with deep New Cairo living.

Key Connectivity Metrics:

• The Maadi Connection: Only 13 minutes from Maadi, a favorite hub for expats and diplomats.
• The 90th Street: Just 7 minutes from the heart of the Fifth Settlement’s commercial district.
• Education Hubs: An 8-minute drive to the American University in Cairo (AUC).
• Global Access: A swift 19-minute drive to Cairo International Airport.
• Weekend Getaway: Located just 45 minutes from the Red Sea beaches of Ain Sokhna, making weekend trips effortless.
• Heliopolis: Accessible within 30 minutes.

4. Developer Overview: Marakez

The Placemakers of Egypt

Investing in off-plan or under-construction property is fundamentally an investment in the developer’s credibility. Marakez stands as a titan in the MENA region. As the Egyptian arm of the Saudi conglomerate Fawaz Al Hokair Group, they bring financial muscle and operational expertise that few competitors can match.

Marakez does not just build concrete shells; they are “Placemakers.” Their track record includes transforming 6th of October City with Mall of Arabia and Aeon Towers. They are renowned for their Commercial Excellence (managing their own assets) and Delivery Commitments (delivering phases on time).

5. Full Project Description & Design Philosophy

A District Designed for Human Connection

District 5 is built on a massive 268-acre plot, but what sets it apart is the allocation of space. Marakez has dedicated a staggering 82.4% of the project to open spaces, trails, parks, and lagoons. The built-up footprint is kept minimal to ensure privacy and breathability.

Architectural Ethos:

The residential clusters feature modern, minimalist architecture. The facades utilize earthy tones, large glass fenestrations, and clean lines to blend with the surrounding desert landscape while maximizing natural light.

• Plateau Zone: Features apartments with varied heights (G+4 to G+6), offering distinct views.
• The Commercial Engine: The project anchors itself with a massive Lifestyle Mall and the Mindhaus business park, allowing residents to walk to work and leisure.

6. Unit Types & Areas (Detailed Breakdown)

Marakez offers a highly diverse inventory designed to cater to everyone from single professionals to large families.

1. Residential Units:

• Plateau Zone Apartments:

• Configuration: 2 to 3 Bedrooms.
• Sizes: Ranging from 69 sqm up to 206 sqm.

• NHN Zone Apartments:

• Configuration: 2 to 3 Bedrooms (Spacious layouts).
• Sizes: Ranging from 126 sqm up to 215 sqm.

• Villas (Town & Twin):

• Twin Houses: Built-up areas up to 285 sqm, with roof terraces (40 sqm) and private gardens ranging from 197 sqm to 258 sqm.

1. Commercial & Administrative Units:

• Mindhaus Offices: Small to medium offices starting from 79 sqm up to 194 sqm.
• Standalone Commercial Buildings: Entire buildings available for corporate HQs, ranging from 456 sqm to 644 sqm (G+2 or G+3 floors).

7. Facilities & Amenities: The “District” Lifestyle

Living in District 5 is akin to living in a fully serviced resort that functions as a city.

• The Lifestyle Centre: A retail and dining hub hosting international brands.
• Mindhaus Business Park: A Grade-A office campus attracting multinational tenants.
• Wellness & Sports: A fully equipped Clubhouse, gym, yoga decks, and multi-purpose sports courts.
• The Green Spine: Miles of dedicated tracks for jogging and cycling, separated from traffic.
• Security & Tech: 5 electronic gates, 24/7 surveillance, and fiber-optic connectivity.
• Pet Friendly: Dedicated dog parks and open spaces.

8. Detailed Pricing & Payment Plans

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to market fluctuations. The figures below are indicative of the current inventory.

District 5 offers premium pricing reflecting its status as a “Blue Chip” asset.

Residential Pricing:

• Plateau Apartments: Range from 12,000,000 EGP to 25,300,000 EGP.
• NHN Apartments: Range from 16,900,000 EGP to 30,100,000 EGP.
• Twin Houses: Start from approximately 35,557,000 EGP.

Commercial & Admin Pricing:

• Administrative Offices (Semi-Finished): 18,700,000 EGP – 29,400,000 EGP.
• Administrative Offices (Fully Finished): 47,000,000 EGP – 51,400,000 EGP (Large areas).
• Entire Commercial Buildings:

• 456 sqm Building: Approx. 105,800,000 EGP.
• 644 sqm Building: Approx. 144,600,000 EGP.

Payment Plans (Tailored by Delivery):

1. Residential (Delivery Dec 2025):

• 30% Down Payment, remainder over 4 Years.

1. Residential (Longer Term Delivery):

• Option A: 10% DP + 5% after 3 months, remainder over 6.5 Years.
• Option B: 15% DP, remainder over 7 Years.

1. Commercial Buildings:

• 10% DP + 5% with first installment, remainder over 7 Years.

1. Administrative Offices:

• 30% DP, remainder over 3 Years (for finished/semi-finished options).

Maintenance Fee: 7% across most units.

9. Why Invest? (Pros & Considerations)

Why It’s Ideal for Foreign Buyers:

1. The “Maadi” Replacement: District 5 offers the greenery and community feel expats love in Maadi, but with modern infrastructure.
2. Mindhaus Yields: Purchasing near a business park guarantees rental demand from corporate tenants.
3. Asset Security: Backed by Saudi capital (Al Hokair), minimizing delivery risk.

Potential Challenges (Transparency Section):

• Limited Inventory: The project is highly sought after, and finding specific units (like small apartments) can be difficult due to high demand.
• Price Point: It is one of the pricier options in the area, requiring a significant initial capital outlay compared to smaller developers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is District 5 geographically in New Cairo?

A: It is in New Katameya, which functionally serves as the southern extension of New Cairo, offering better access to Maadi and the Airport than central New Cairo.

Q: Are the residential units delivered finished?

A: Most units are delivered Core & Shell (semi-finished) to allow for customization. However, some specific phases or admin units may offer full finishing.

Q: Who manages the commercial areas?

A: Marakez retains management of the retail/commercial components, ensuring high tenant quality and maintenance, which protects the property value for residents.

Q: Can foreigners own property here?

A: Yes, foreign nationals can purchase freehold property. The project’s status and price point make it eligible for residency-by-investment programs (subject to Egyptian law).